At Least 50 Dead After Shooting At Gay Nightclub In Orlando

Authorities are calling the tragedy an act of terrorism.

Authorities have confirmed at least 50 people are dead and 53 injured after a gunman walked into Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, FL, and opened fire early Sunday morning.

The F.B.I. has confirmed that the gunman has been identified as 29-year-old Omar Mateen of Port St. Lucie, FL.

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As the attack unfolded, Pulse posted a status update to its own Facebook page, saying, "Everyone get out of pulse and keep running." Later, the club wrote, "As soon as we have any information we will update everyone. Please keep everyone in your prayers as we work through this tragic event. Thank you for your thoughts and love."

Following the initial attack which took place around 2 a.m. Sunday morning, the gunman held hostages inside of the club. The gunman, who reportedly carried an assault-style rifle, a handgun and possibly had some sort of explosive device strapped to his body, was eventually killed in a shootout with law enforcement at 5 a.m. Local authorities are calling this mass shooting an act of domestic terrorism and the F.B.I. is investigating.

The City of Orlando has begun releasing the names of victims who were killed in the shooting here.

This incident comes one day after The Voice contestant and YouTube sensation Christina Grimmie was shot and killed at an Orlando concert.

You can support Orlando’s LGBT community in the wake of this tragedy by donating to the Orlando Youth Alliance, a local LGBT organization.